By Will Burgess

Marietta, Ga. — In commemoration of the 60th anniversary of Yamaha’s first-ever entry into a World Grand Prix race, Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA has introduced three new special edition models for 2022: the stunning new YZF-R3 World GP 60th Anniversary Edition, YZF-R7 World GP 60th Anniversary Edition and YZF-R1 World GP 60th Anniversary Edition.

Inspired by Yamaha’s historic decision to compete in its first World GP race at the 1961 Grand Prix of France, led by Fumio Ito and Taneharu Noguchi, and based on the iconic 60th Anniversary Yamaha white and red chain block livery recently unveiled on the factory YZR-M1 race bikes at this year’s Official MotoGP Test in Qatar, these striking machines pay tribute to to this storied heritage in the world of racing.

“Racing has always been in Yamaha’s DNA, as well as a cornerstone of motorcycle development.” said Derek Brooks, Yamaha Motorcycle Product Line Manager. “Nowhere is this fact more evident than with our R-series bikes, which have benefited from years of Grand Prix racing. Technology and designs have trickled down to our production Superbike and Supersport machines, making them dominant forces in MotoAmerica racing for so many years.”

“That’s why we’re thrilled to give Yamaha enthusiasts the opportunity to own this piece of Yamaha racing history. These distinctive World GP 60th Anniversary editions are amazing to see in person with the instantly recognizable classic white and red Yamaha Racing livery and a range of other special detailing.”

Along with the World GP 60th Anniversary color scheme, each bike also includes gold wheels, gold forks, Yamaha factory race-bike Gold Tuning Fork emblems, black levers and special commemorative badging on the airbox cover.

The new 2022 YZF-R3 World GP 60th Anniversary Edition will be available from dealers this February for USD$5,499 MSRP; the new 2022 YZF-R7 World GP 60th Anniversary Edition will be available from dealers this January for $9,299 MSRP; and the new 2022 YZF-R1 World GP 60th Anniversary Edition will be available from dealers this November for $18,099 MSRP.

Learn more about the 2022 Yamaha Supersport model line at https://www.yamahamotorsports.com/supersport.

Will Burgess is a journalist with Adrenaline Powersports Mag